On-on-One With OSBI Director: Greg Masburn's plan to restore trust and revamp agency

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) appointed longtime prosecutor Greg Mashburn as its new director — a leadership shift aimed at restoring trust in the state’s top investigative agency after months of internal unrest and mounting frustration from victims' families. With decades of experience fighting for victims, Mashburn says he's ready to bring that commitment at a statewide level.

Why It Matters: The OSBI is tasked with solving some of Oklahoma’s most complex cases — including major crimes, organized crime, computer crimes, and cold cases — but the agency’s recent struggles have raised questions about its effectiveness.

What You Need to Know: The OSBI Commission voted unanimously on Feb. 25 to hire Mashburn, a career prosecutor who spent nearly two decades as district attorney for Cleveland, McClain, and Garvin counties. He takes over less than a month after former Director Aungela Spurlock resigned amid performance concerns and internal tensions. In his first interview, Mashburn laid out his vision to revamp the agency — prioritizing transparency, accountability, and rebuilding trust with victims' families.

Q&A with Greg Mashburn

Q: Why step into this role when you were so close to retirement?

A: “I love serving the people of Oklahoma. I told my wife about the job opening, and she was shocked I wanted to keep going. But I see this as an opportunity to continue fighting for justice — just in a different way.

It’s something in my heart — serving the people of Oklahoma. I’ve worked alongside this agency for years, and its mission aligns with what I’m passionate about. We show up, fight for justice for victims, and ensure the right thing happens.”

Q: OSBI has faced criticism for its lack of communication with crime victims’ families. Will that change under your leadership?

A: “Absolutely. That will be a priority for our agency — helping families understand what’s going on, what to expect, and giving them the knowledge they need to help get the closure they deserve.”

Q: Families with cold case victims have recently voiced frustration with the agency. What’s your plan to restore their confidence in OSBI?

A: “Cold case agents are just as frustrated as the families when we don't get answers. That frustration fuels us to keep working. We must communicate regularly, let families know what we’re doing, and share updates as soon as we have them. When families know someone is actively working on their loved one's case, it helps rebuild trust.”

Q: The OSBI headquarters has been plagued with mold and other problems. Will you push for a new building?

A: “I know the legislature has allocated funding for the project, and several options are on the table. I haven't had the chance to fully review them yet, but we will find the best solution for the agency while being fiscally responsible with taxpayer money.”

Q: What makes you the right person to lead OSBI through this transition?

A: “I've worked alongside OSBI agents my entire career. I know what they’re capable of, and I know what prosecutors need from them to make cases stick in court. That experience gives me a unique perspective to strengthen the agency from the inside out.”

What’s Next: Mashburn plans to travel across the state to meet with local law enforcement and OSBI employees at satellite offices — a first step in rebuilding partnerships and reinforcing the agency’s commitment to serving victims and their families.